Are Luxury Home Prices Rising in Dana Point?

If you’ve been watching the luxury real estate market in Coastal Orange County, you’ve probably noticed the spotlight shifting toward Dana Point, and for good reason. With sweeping harbor views, walkable neighborhoods, and an ongoing $600 million revitalization of the Dana Point Harbor, this seaside city is quickly becoming one of the most desirable (and fastest appreciating) luxury markets in the region.

So the question is: Are luxury home prices rising in Dana Point? Let’s look at the numbers.

Home Prices Are Climbing — Fast

In 2025, the average sales price in Dana Point has jumped to $2,827,761 year-to-date. Even more striking, the average in just the last 30 days was $3,745,156.

Compare that to the September 2024 average of $2,077,296, and you’re looking at a staggering year-over-year increase of nearly 80% for that same 30-day period.

Median sales prices tell a similar story:

• 2025 YTD Median: $1,835,000

• Last 30 Days Median: $2,300,000

• September 2024 Median: $1,625,000

  
  

This shows broad-based price growth, not just a few outlier sales.

Growth Is Happening Across the City

Unlike some markets where appreciation is isolated to a few gated enclaves, Dana Point is seeing value increases across its neighborhoods. From ocean-view estates in Monarch Beach to up-and-coming homes in the Lantern District, buyers are recognizing Dana Point’s unique mix of luxury, walkability, and long-term potential.

The Luxury Segment Is Making Moves

Luxury is gaining serious traction in Dana Point:

• 13% of sales in the last 6 months closed over $5 million

• These homes spent an average of 115 days on the market

• 57% were cash purchases

• These cash deals closed at 93% of list price, on average

• Meanwhile, 32% of active listings are currently priced above $5 million

  
  

Buyers are clearly willing to spend, but they’re also strategic. Pricing and presentation matter, even in the luxury tier.

Spotlight Sale: $10.82M in the Heart of the Harbor

One standout sale says it all.

34312 Starboard Lantern, listed by Tim Smith (MLS #NP25186196), just closed for $10,820,000. This stunning home featured:

• Panoramic ocean and harbor views

• A pool and pool house

• 2.5 combined lots (nearly 19,000 sq ft total)

• Gated privacy

• Exceptional walkability to the newly revitalized Dana Point Harbor

  
  

It checked every luxury buyer’s box — location, size, amenities, and long-term value.

What’s Fueling the Surge?

1. Limited Inventory: Especially in the high-end segment. Luxury homes aren’t flooding the market, and demand is outpacing supply.

2. Harbor Revitalization: The multi-year transformation of Dana Point Harbor is bringing world-class restaurants, walkable promenades, boutique hotels, and vibrant marina life, and all just steps from some of the city’s most coveted homes.

3. Cash-Heavy Buyer Pool: With over 50% of recent luxury sales being all cash, the market is less sensitive to interest rates and more influenced by lifestyle-driven purchasing decisions.

4. Lifestyle Appeal: Dana Point offers a quieter, more relaxed feel compared to Newport or Laguna, but still delivers on luxury, views, and amenities.

Final Thoughts

Luxury home prices in Dana Point aren’t just rising, they’re soaring. And with major investment reshaping the city’s waterfront and lifestyle infrastructure, this trend is likely to continue.

For sellers, this is a prime moment to list with confidence, especially if your home offers proximity to the harbor or ocean views. For buyers, waiting could mean paying significantly more down the road.

If you're curious what your Dana Point home could be worth in today's market or want to explore current luxury listings, let’s talk. I know the neighborhoods, the numbers, and the negotiation strategies that make a difference at the top of the market.